Northern Gates [Official Entrance]

Shimiko's Loadout:

Shimiko stepped off the small but distinct diplomatic vessel with her subordinate Darkseid Ōtsutsuki. The dock which they had disembarked on was fairly close to the village gates proper and with the Chuunin Exams ending, she guessed that Kirigakure would be returning to regular security protocols. The Honey Badger was normally a very cheery and pleasant woman to be around, but given her past relationship with Kirigakure, she was anything but nice. This would be the third time she'd be visiting Kirigakure as a result of the nation's disregard for international norms. The people were good but its leadership was rotten to the core. She figured that Nariko would have probably broached the subject with the current sitting Mizukage. The fact that Nariko had left in one piece and the Exams had not been wholly disrupted told Shimiko that some kind of understanding had been worked out. This fact stayed her hand for the moment.

Nevertheless, she felt it necessary to make it clear that certain wrongs needed to be righted and that moving forward she'd be taking a more active role in ensuring compliance with "Good Neighborly Policies". The nations had been at war twice and her father had served in one of those wars. If necessary, she had every intention of following in the family tradition of annihilating Kiri-Nin. The double-pony tailed Jounin strode to the Kirigakure gates with confidence and purpose. Her Ketsurygan was already active and her battle senses were dialed to 11. The guards would likely recognize her on sight and so she saw no reason to introduce herself.

She cut to the chase:

"I'm here to see the Mizukage. Call it an emergency meeting from Kumo's ANBU Captain. This isn't the sort of thing that can wait so I suggest you hurry"

Shimiko would then fill out the form required for all visitors.

Code:


Full Name: Shimiko Chinoike
Citizenship: Lightning Country (Kumogakure)
Reason for Leaving/Entering: Diplomatic Visit
Expected Duration: To Be Determined


She expected Seid to be on high alert. Bad things tended to happen at Kiri's gates. She recalled Lei Inazuma's untimely end in this very place. The more she thought about it, the more she wondered if she had misjudged him. The man had a stellar record as a Jounin and there was no indication of mental illness in his files. Yet for some reason he had attempted to assassinate the Mizukage during a routine courier mission. Natsuru had corroborated Kiri's version of events and so Shimiko had not given the subject much thought beyond that. However, the more she meditated on it, the more she wondered if that was the full story. Either Lei was a hidden asset for a nefarious third party (the Society) or he had uncovered information about Kiri that had disturbed him to his core. Information that compelled him to act in a very violent way. It was also rather suspicious how in the direct aftermath of his attack, Mizukage Takeo suddenly retired only to be replaced by a greater warmonger. The situation rubbed Shimiko the wrong way and with recent events, the irritation became more pronounced.

Did Lei see something that we had missed? Something that had forced his hand?

Shimiko wasn't sure but she was now focused on finding out.

Active: Ketsurygan

It was more than he had expected. He had many tales of the Land of Water. Its capital shrouded in terror tales. Despite that, Seid noticed a unknown beauty upon the large island. Stepping off the boat he followed the ANBU Captain towards the village. The Otsu was still armored and armed with all his items, though small in number. He wasn't expecting thing to get spicy, but Shimiko walked at her own pace. As shown with the Jashin riots, she handled both sides respectively well. Meaning her goals aligned were always with the villages. So he would trust her orders.

This happened to be Darkseid first trip outside the country besides his time on other worlds. There was always something happening in Land of Water. He marveled at its size as it became more defined through the unyielding mist. As they neared the gaes.  He was not surprised to see Shimiko on alert as usual. He would follow the suit and be on his guard as well. Walking behind her with his eye pale grey with a ring circled. His Rinnegan active, he was on high alert a well.

Shimiko approached first, going towards the gate sign-in. She stated why they were there, Seid nodded, filling out the list albeit with a different name. Going by Darkseid. He said nothing, as he was supposed to be a shadow. But waited after signing as well.

--------------------

Active: Rinnegan

Time moved forward for the unfortunate guards on gate duty. What felt like hours became minutes for those standing aimlessly on patrol. But despite how mindless the job was and how distractions tempted them every second, they had a job to do. From afar, a pair of shadows broke out of the jungle and onto the main road, their details becoming more and more apparent as they neared the gates away from the thickest parts of the mist. From the Kumogakure ninja's perspective they would find a sense of command among the gate sentries. The majority of guards wore standard attire consisting of some light clothing, sandals, flak jackets, and tools. However, there was the occasional, distinctive ninja who seemed a bit more heavily armored, wore a cloak among their heavier gear, and carried a katana at their side. It would be easy to conclude those were the captains, and were the kind of people you wanted to seek out first when demanding the presence of authority.

Descending from the top along with five of the lesser ninja backing him, they all served to block the gate from further entry. While his squad was unable to identify the woman, the captain certainly did. And he was aware of her subtle hostilities with her doujutsu active. The woman had a simple request, and that was to seek the Mizukage immediately. "We were not expecting any diplomatic presence from Kumogakure. So understand whether the Mizukage shows up or not depends on her generosity regarding spontaneous appointments. Rion, radio her in. In the meantime I must inform you that we have zero tolerance for hostility. Deactivate both of your doujutsu, and keep them inactive during the duration of your visit. In the Mizukage's presence we will take it as a sign of aggression." While the captain confronted Shimiko and her lesser known partner regarding their eye technique, Rion rose his hand up to an ear piece turning on the headset and changing the channel into a private line. "Lady Mizukage, we have an emergency at the Northern Gates that requires you immediate presence. This is regarding two visitors from Kumogakure." And sure enough, with that call, she would be summoned.

---

Hana received the radio from her office and prepared herself immediately, leaving the office with her guard unit in ample time, showing up at the Northern Gates ten minutes later. Given the size of the Metropolis one could deduct she did not waste any time. An emergency, to many, suggested something that had the lives of others at risk. This is why Hana insisted on gearing up before her arrival. A pair of heavy-duty black combat boots covered both feet made with exceptional craftsmanship and reinforced with titanium toe caps and soles embedded in the eel leather. Over her legs she wore a pair of uniform pants which were common among Kirigakure ninja. Like all Shinobi she wore a utility belt to hold her pants against her body and carry her essential supplies. Hana carried a sheathed katana in a lacquered black scabbard on her left side attached to her tool belt.

A single blue holster was on the right side of the belt and a hip pouch around her back side just above her rear. Both were filled to capacity with ninja tools. A short sleeved undershirt was worn as her first layer. This shirt was one fitted with riveted titanium mail designed to be flexible and lightweight providing protection and encumbering her minimally. Her second layer was a long sleeve black shirt similar in craftsmanship of the leggings. It was a heavy and durable top providing maximum protection for lightweight clothing. Black leather gloves covered both hands being basic in design providing warmth and protection. These came with small titanium titanium plates on the backs to provide protection against blades. Over her equipment she wore a brown leather baldric which held Hiramekarei. The wide, curvy flat blades were together and wrapped in white bandage wrap to protect the user. Around her neck she had a rebreather mask which rested on the upper part of her sternum for quick deployment if necessary.

Hana wore an array of enhanced armor picked up by Kirigakure's armory. Forged Titanium, the set consisted of shin guards which covered the tops of her feet and shin up to the knees, waist and hip guards, chest and backplate, forearm and backhand guards, upper arm guards, and finally a happuri with Kirigakure's emblem engraved on the front where the forehead would be.

Like most Kaguya her skin was deathly pale. This was coupled with long white hair which was relatively thick compared to the long, silky strands a lot of the more feminine clan females had, which required day-to-day dedication to maintain. Hers was a bit untamed and high in both length and volume extending as far as her lower back. Her eyes were the only true difference in her appearance compared to the rest of her clan having an alluring golden hue to them.

Hana would be at the center of a formation of nine guards. The guards she had were unlike the standard ninja she had, or even the captains. They were far better equipped and unlike the others, wore unique masks to conceal their appearances. The two people requesting the emergency from Kumogakure were nobody she could exactly remember by appearance alone. On the political scale of things one could say she lived under a rock, preferring Kirigakure's current neutrality. The need to learn public figures was beneath her. So seeing the blonde pigtails and her ward did not ring any bells. "Where's the emergency?" Hana said almost urgently, ready to deploy her units and possibly even herself if the event was dire. They all stood several meters from the entrance where Shimiko and Seid stood as well as the gate guard squad.

---

Royal Guard Unit #1: Chakra Sensory Technique | 109.5/110 CP

Shimiko had to keep from rolling her eyes when the captain said "whether the Mizukage shows up or not depends on her generosity regarding spontaneous appointments."  The Mizukage would show up to her "spontaneous appointment" one way or another. She took his statement to be pure posturing and so she didn't comment on it. His request for them to deactivate their Dojutsu was rather annoying but she complied. If it were her Kage's life on the line she'd ask much the same. Additionally, if she complied with their good-faith request, she expected them to return the favor. Shimiko blinked and the Ketsurygan was deactivated, she then turned to Seid and nodded showing him her regular pupils. It was a direct command for him to comply with their lawful order.

They could always activate their Doujutsu later if need be, but for now Shimiko would do as they had asked. While Rion radioed for the Mizukage to arrive, Shimiko addressed the captain.

"It is my understanding that the Raikage visited this village during the Chuunin Exam. I am formally requesting that your village produce all transcripts, minutes, memoranda, and summaries of any meetings that took place between your Kage and mine."

It was a bold ask but then again, so was the captain's. After a few minutes of deliberation, the captain would provide Shimiko with a folder containing a comprehensive summary of what Nariko and Hana had agreed to. Shimiko's eyes flew across the page while still maintaining perfect tactical awareness of her surroundings. She breathed a sigh of relief as she studied the document. It appeared as though this Mizukage was more sensitive to Kiri and Kumo's relationship than her predecessors. She had showed flexibility and a desire to mend past wrongs. It was a starting point, but it wasn't nearly enough in of itself. Shimiko memorized its contents in the time it took for Hana to arrive. She handed it back to the captain just as the Kaguya turned up at the scene with a squadron of guards.

"Where's the emergency?"
"It hasn't happened yet." Shimiko said truthfully while analyzing the woman and her guards.

"Depending on what we agree to right here, right now it won't ever happen.....or it can happen in the next few minutes.....Allow me explain, as Kumo's ANBU Captain its my job to protect the Lighting Country's national security interests. And as you and Nariko-sama have discussed, Kirigakure has been a constant threat to those interests. You've come to an agreement with her which is good. However, you should know that I intend to enforce that agreement at every turn. I'll need your cooperation of course and if you give it, both of our people can prosper. If you don't..."

Shimiko lifted her index finger and slid it across her neck. The message was clear.

Shimiko had met with Hana's predecessor and the meeting had gone rather sour. He was stubborn but even in his stubbornness she sensed a desire to turn away from warmongering. She trusted that the pressure she had applied would make him reconsider future unlawful conquests. Her hope was misplaced. Not long after that meeting, Kyoji Hoshigaki would go on to plunder the Land of Iron then brag about it on national tv. To make matters worse, he had appointed his right hand marauder as Mizukage. Ken had warned her about the Kaguya and their involvement in international banditry. Nariko had struck a conciliatory tone in their meeting and Shimiko had tried to do the same with Kyoji before their discussion had gone off the rails. This time around though, she'd spare herself and their village the pleasantries . There was no mistaking the threatening tone of her language. It was provocative even if she herself took no physical action. If the guards or Hana found it intolerable, then  the Chinoike would defend herself but she had to set certain expectations. Chief among them, was that play time was over. Kirigakure and Kumogakure were at a crossroads and empty promises, flattery, and back-slapping would no longer carry the day.

1st Post Analyzing Hana & Company

They were first greeted by a captain. Stating how the sudden meeting would be dependent on the Mizukage as it was short noticed. A company of ninja had been summoned to the gates at the Kumo ninjas arrival. Among that group was the Mizukage. Darkseid felt honored, besides Nariko he had never met an important official before. But they were there on business and he had to be professional.

Hana Kaguya. She was quite the looker as by earth standards. He would do well not voice such thoughts around Shimiko. Less that get back to the Twins, they would be disappointed. She came in quick fashion surrounded by her personal guards. She spoke to Shimiko and they exchanged their wants. The Chinoike expressing their side of the coin. Deactivating her eye she motioned for Seid to deactivate his eyes and he did.

Seid would standby as needed as they discussed with each other. He would only do what was commanded of the ANBU Captain but also keep an eye on her.

Shimiko's words were well-received by the guards surrounding the Mizukage, a lot of them expression anger on their faces following Shimiko's threat. The captain's body tensed up, muscles visibly expanding as his arms lowered almost reading into a sword drawing stance. There was one person out of the Kirigakure group that remained nonchalant and oblivious to the threat hurled at Kirigakure, and that was the Mizukage herself. Hana's head canted slightly as she maintained the same blank stare of confusion she had the moment she arrived. She wants my cooperation for an emergency that's about to come...and if I don't cooperate both of our villages will suffer death? Although she didn't care much about Kumogakure she did intend to help Kirigakure any way she could, and that involved seeking the help of Kumogakure apparently.

"Oh yeah, that agreement. I was wondering when Kumogakure was going to send somebody to execute it. If I recall correctly there was like, a three step plan..." The same guard that handed Shimiko the transcript of the deal immediately passed it over to Hana to not have her embarrass herself in front of the foreigners by attempting to use her memory. Turning her head towards the guard she grabbed the document, unbeknownst to its contents until she opened it, skimmed the details, and face lit up at the help she received from her ally. "Yeah, here we go. So, the first step was to begin the construction of a military base in the Land of Demons. Kumogakure was also supposed to do this as a sign of trust. After that, Kirigakure pays one-million ryo in damages to the Land of Demons as well as liberation. Lastly, regarding the Land of Iron, Kirigakure was to return Kurosawa and return what was plundered. Oh, and we needed to do the same to the Land of Demons as well."

Handing the packet of text documentation back to the guard she focused her attention back to the Chinoike. "That was the agreement your boss and I came to. Fortunately the Chuunin Exams wrapped up, so now is the most opportune time to carry out these chores. With a new batch of Chuunin from the result of the exams I have the personnel needed to supervise the construction needed for the compound development in the Land of Demons, and enough funds to help them recover." Hana said factually with a bit of a proud tone seeing as Kirigakure was not only successful during the Chuunin Exams, but did manage to raise quite a bit of funds during the testing period allowing Kirigakure to not suffer during the whole international relationship recovery process.

Shimiko noticed the guards' apprehension. The fear and anger were visible on all of their faces. She smirked as if to congratulate herself on a threat well delivered. Yet when she saw Hana's confused expression, she furrowed her brows in annoyance. Either the Kaguya was dense or being purposefully obtuse. The Kaguya were not known for producing scholars and scientists, they were a feral warrior clan with a proud and noble history. Shimiko likened them to the Chinoike, and initially, she had hoped to cultivate a long-term trans-national alliance with them. That was before their Queen left her standing outside their Palace looking like a lost tramp. Shimiko had not forgotten the insult nor what she had learned about the Clan from Ken Tetsudashi. The secondhand and firsthand experiences she had garnered had resulted in her forming a low opinion of them. Hana was not helping their case.

Shimiko turned behind her to look at Seid as if to say: Is this chick serious? Shimiko faced forwards and shook her head slowly in annoyance as Hana latched onto a small portion of Shimiko's speech. It was apparently the only portion she seemed to understand. When the guard went to hand Hana the transcript of the meeting, Shimiko guessed from his body language that the Kaguya really was this inexperienced. It didn't necessarily make her a slouch combat wise, but it did make Shimiko wonder if there was someone behind Hana. Someone pulling the strings while she was set up to take the fall.

Hana reiterated the deal that the Kage had reached and went on to provide concrete details on how she was going to carry it out. She used the Chuunin Exams as an excuse as to why she hadn't hopped to it just yet but Shimiko was unconvinced. Kirigakure was fond of this sort of game. She had fallen for it once, but never again.

Speaking slowly and with greater care not to confuse the Kage, Shimiko replied:

"Yes. That is in fact the agreement. Now about some of those terms....if your village intends to uphold its end of the deal regarding the Land of Demons that would be a step in the right direction. But I don't want you or your village siphoning off any funds from the people of that country. We will begin construction soon and at no point should you take from the Land of Demons to fill your own pockets. Kumo will do a full accounting of their national output......"

She paused to rephrase.

"Basically, we're going to look at the numbers for their resources and if we find anything missing, we will consider it a breach of your contractu-." She rolled her eyes as she grew frustrated with the tenor of the conversation. Remembering the earlier confusion, she once more opted for simpler language. "We will consider it to be breaking the agreement and we will retaliate with military force."

Shimiko enjoyed using veiled threats on the international stage. They rolled off the tongue well and provided a nice cinematic touch to her encounters with other world leaders. Unfortunately, it was also her job to communicate Kumo's position effectively. If Hana wasn't the sort to enjoy a good verbal joust then she'd need to make her threats crystal clear.

"And yes, there's also the matter of the loot you took from the Land of Iron. I'll be seeing to that personally. Who have you put in charge of finding and returning Kurosawa and the rest of Iron's property? I'll need to speak with them and personally escort them and their cargo to the Land of Iron. I'd hate for someone or something to go missing along the way. It sounds like Kyoji is in possession of at least part of the loot but Kiri has yet to add him to the Bingo Book. That will need to happen...and soon.....Let's not forget you also agreed to deliver an apology to the international community for Kiri's rogue behavior and a formal renunciat-, a uh, rejection of the Society and its ideals. I'd like that to happen soon as well. As in the next twenty four hours."

Shimiko hadn't intended to cover these subjects first. They were, in her opinion, the easiest points of discussion. They included matters that Kirigakure had already agreed to. This was just both nation's enforcing and following through on their obligations. However, the conversation had naturally flowed in that direction as a result of Hana's confusion. It made Shimiko wonder if the Kaguya was some sort of secret genius. A master manipulator who was carefully framing the boundaries of the discussion even as her village faced a mortal threat.

Mismatched hues took in some more of the sights of Kirigakure, a metropolis, rather advanced compared to his home village, as he made his way back towards the gates of Kirigakure. Azuma wished to return back to Sunagakure, as he wanted to return with his report about the discussions and such that went on during his visit to Kirigakure. As he'd done for most of his stint here, the man would have his Sensory Technique active, never one to let his guard down, even if so far Kirigakure had been...mostly inviting. To be fair, him and his partner's welcoming party was on the strange side. But that was behind them.

As he approached the gates, even from a quarter kilometer out, he couldn't help but notice a number of large chakra signatures present at the gates of Kirigakure. He continued on, surely other shinobi could be coming and going, it wasn't too strange. But upon getting too the gates, he couldn't help but notice a discussion being had between two whom he'd sensed from 250 meters out. Mismatched hues glanced over as he could hear pretty much their entire discussion with his sensitive ears--gaze falling upon two females, and a masked man, the quick wit of the Shinobi kicking in, he recognized the two woman, even if he'd never met them.

Hana Kaguya, the Mizukage he'd originally came to Kirigakure with the intent to speak too. Shimiko Chinoike, finalist of the 1st Shinobi World Tournament and among the most powerful of Kumogakure. Accompanying Shimiko was an ANBU member, Azuma taking note of their owl mask. Normally Azuma wouldn't listen in to other's conversations, but he couldn't help but overhear the conversation. Shimiko wasn't exactly quiet. He'd for now quietly observe...one bit intrigued the man, Shimiko's mention of returning Kurosawa to the Land of Iron. This was something Azuma wished to see happen, being a friend of the new Shogun of Iron, Kensai--and by coincidence, he'd recently seen Kurosawa only a few minutes prior.

Apparently they were attracting guests. The Otsutsuki had been keeping an eye on the company before them and the surrounding area. Though he was listening on the conversation a well, it wasn't that much of an importance. He was here on orders and that was all that mattered. Captain Shimiko had been in the middle of responding to Hana's mention of her meeting with Nariko. When Seid noticed an individual observing them. Leaning forward towards Shimiko's shoulder, he whispered into her ear. "Let's be quick." Taping her shoulder, that would prompt her to look for wandering eyes and ears.

Otherwise he was privy to the information about Kyoji. Someone that needed to be added to the bingo book by Shimi's standards. But he was sure it was because of the bad blood between the Hoshigaki. Leaning back he was now sure that Nariko had done more than her fair share of easing tensions. As the longest reigning Kage, he should have expected that.

Now it would be up to them to uphold the deal. His past experience with the Land of Demons would come in handy if he was tasked to it. But he was sure they would focus their attention on the Society. He wondered if Shimiko was interested in seeing their side on the matter or if she even cared.

Hana watched Shimiko with a nonchalant expression, unmoved by the huffing and puffing she attempted to display as a form of intimidation. Words had little gravity to the Kaguya, as exchanging fists was a past time enjoyed by the clan. Hana was numb to pain and found joy in combat. If she wanted to dance, they would dance; Shimiko's words served as an invitation to a good time. But Hana couldn't let her personal pities jeopardize the city she spent so long cleaning up. As Shimiko began to wrap up the last she had to say her guard nudged her elbow from behind and leaned in for a whisper, the contents unknown by those surrounding Hana. After the guard stepped back, Hana replied.

"Of course. At the start of the next month I will fund the construction of Kirigakure's military base in the Land of Demons, as well as withdraw any presence Kirigakure has with the village. Once the base is complete I will begin installments for reparations." Then there was the issue with the Land of Iron, which was when Hana casually lowered her hands to the front of her belt, taking the posture of the infamous belt grab appearing rather relaxed. "As for the person responsible for handling Iron's loot, that is none of your business. Understand that Kirigakure and Kumogakure are not friends. Kirigakure will remain to operate independently. I agreed to your Kage's deal because I do wish to correct Kirigakure's wrongdoings and am willing to seek Kumogakure's cooperation in taking down what is left of The Society, as they have poisoned my home's name for years. You may contact Iron's Shogun after I message your Raikage that the loot has been delivered to confirm its legitimacy. That is all you're going to get as far as Kirigakure's cooperation. I'm sure you understand that the Mizukage, who has been threatened twice by a foreign ambassador within the past five minutes, is not too keen on sharing the inner workings of our operation."

Letting her arms drop back down to her sides she would return a genuine smile to leave things off on a kinder note. "But you will certainly have press announcement today. In fact, Rion, if you could contact our Government Affairs and Public Relations department to set up an appointment for today. How does six o'clock sound?" Hana said, returning her attention back to Shimiko after slightly diverting it to her right-hand man, Rion Uchiha. "You and your sidekick will be able to watch the live broadcast from your lavish suite in Ota." Her final words implied that Hana did intend to cooperate with the Kumogakure ambassadors and expected to see them for a few days to come. But their presence was not welcomed within the walls of Kirigakure for obvious reasons stated by Hana and defended by her.

---

NPC Guard #1: 108.5/110 | Chakra Sensing Technique

Seid alerted her to the presence of another individual in the area. Even if he hadn't said anything, she'd have noticed him but it was good that the Ōtsutsuki had his head on a swivel. She nodded as her eyes momentarily darted towards the newcomer. He had long dark hair, heterochromia iridum, a long scar on his face, and pasty white skin. Most striking was the Sunagakure headband that he wore. Suna? What are they doing here? It only took a moment for her to answer her own question. The Chuunin Exams were just about done and it was likely that they were now leaving. That being said, it might not have been the only reason they were there. She'd keep his presence in mind for the time being but wouldn't draw any more attention to him. He was an unknown and thus he could either help or hinder the negotiations. She turned her attention back to the Mizukage.

Hana confirmed that she intended to uphold her end of the deal concerning the Land of Demons. The ANBU nodded in response. Good...we're making progress... What she said next, however, threatened the tenuous peace that they had established. Shimiko pursed her lips as the Mizukage patently refused to give her the identity of the Kiri-Nin responsible for handing over Kurosawa. When Hana reached for her belt, Shimiko mirrored her action by drawing her hands behind her back. Her fingers interlaced with the handle of her Sai and she gripped them tightly. She didn't draw the weapons, but she could at a moment's notice. The two were of kindred souls in that moment, for the Honey Badger was now itching for an excuse to use her Claws.

Seid, who was standing slightly behind Shimiko, would notice this action and presumably ready himself for combat.

Shimiko listened with an increasingly agitated expression as Hana explained that the transfer was none of Kumogakure's business. She finally acknowledged Shimiko's threats which was good, but she indicated that it had had the opposite effect. Rather than inducing compliance, it had served to drive a wedge further between them. That was interesting because Shimiko had tried to reason with Kiri in the past with honeyed words and solemn promises, but each time they had gone back on their word or worse. Shimiko was also aware that had Kumo and Kiri been friends, that wouldn't be a guarantee that the island nation wouldn't attempt to stab them in the back anyways. The fate of the Nidaime Hokage had told her that much.

Hana's hand dropped back to her sides once she had finished standing her ground. Shimiko's hands remained right where they were. She listened without interrupting as Hana agreed to make the statement before the end of the day. Shimiko also noted that she and her subordinate were not welcomed inside the village itself. She did love being pampered, and so the promise of a lavish suite did sound enticing. However, given the circumstances, it came across as more of an insult than as an genuine offer of hospitality.

"Kirigakure's friendship means nothing to me. Its an open secret in the intelligence community that Kirigakure was responsible for the assassination of the Satomi Uchiha, the Second Hokage of Konohagakure no Sato. You two were supposedly allies and you murdered him in cold blood. You talk about fighting the Society but a third of your Kage has ties to the organization and its current leader was spawned from within your walls. I'm threatening you because perhaps force is the only language your government seems to understand. I do not trust you to deliver Kurosawa which is why I want to personally ensure that it is returned to the Land of Iron. Kiri is always up to something and rather than contacting the Shogun after the fact, we're going to be a bit more proactive. There are good people in your country. I know this because I've met them personally. You say you represent those people and want to turn Kiri from its dark past....I will trust that is your intention but I need to make sure this time...."

Shimiko repeated again for simplicity's sake:

"Think of it as being like a principle of foreign affairs. 'Trust but verify.'"

A battle seemed inevitable but she resisted the urge to activate her Ketsurygan.

"So I'm going to ask you one more time Mizukage-dono: I need the identity of the Nin responsible for handling Kurosawa and once I have it I plan to escort that Nin to the Shogunate. Will you cooperate?"

2nd Post Analyzing Hana & Company

Ei would arrive at the gates shortly after Azuma did, adorned in her usual outfit and a parasol. She had made a quick stop, which was what allowed Azuma to get ahead of her, but now that she was finally catching up Ei would be able to witness that which had made Azuma pause. He had likely been able to see it far in advance with his sensoy prowess, an ability which Ei lacked. Just as Azuma had, Ei would recognize the figures involved immediately. Everyone here was rather famous, and so it would be difficult not to. A small, knowing smile would cross her lips as the situation became clear, along with Akeruseirei’s anxieties. All of the concerns she shared about Kirigakure now seemed much more founded. Rather quickly Ei’s freehand would reach to take Azuma’s own unoccupied one, squeezing it tightly and refusing to let go. Although with Ei’s strength that tightness was unlikely to be even the slightest discomfort to Azuma, but it would be enough to express her current intentions to the man. A shift in her positioning would place her right beside him, as close as possible, and the parasol she had would share them both together. This too had been part of the Kazekage’s orders. One step had been the negotiations, but another had been to collect as much information as possible. To leave this situation as it was would be simply negligent to their orders, especially with it clear what was happening, and who was involved.

“Oho~ It seems we’ve stumbled upon something rather interesting… Let’s watch this to its conclusion, dear. It seems too good an opportunity to pass up.”

Her voice was soft, meant from Azuma's ears only, but it was without a doubt that others would be able to pick up if they really tried. As observers they would be sure to add some unknown element to the negotiations, along with encouraging the group to move from their current position at the gates, unless they were okay with everything they said being heard by these two observers. Both Ei and Azuma were clearly from Sunagakure as well, both having a headband somewhere on their body, and she was more than curious to see how that would affect the situation, if at all.

"Additionally... I believe this would be captured within our new obligations. Don't you think so as well?"

A slight shiver would run up her spine, something which would be easily noticeable to the male beside her. With her body temperature being what it was, it was hard for Ei to really tolerate climates other than the desert of Sunagakure. She was absolutely freezing right now, and the fact that she insisted on showing so much of her chest off with her outfit probably didn't help. But fashion came at a steep price, and that was a price that she was willing to pay. From her perspective Azuma's hand was as cold as ice, and from his Ei's hand was likely as warm as an oven. Her fingers would release from his for a moment, clenching into themselves to attempt to warm up for a moment, before they would raise. Her index finger would be placed against his lips slowly, in a slightly teasing manner. She had just caught the tail end of what was said, and so she knew exactly what he was probably itching to say. This however, was just a small gesture for him to keep his lips closed for now. Just for now. Ei wanted more than anything to see how this played out independently of their own machinations. When the right time to strike was, they would both swoop in and demand compensation for their assistance, from whichever party that may be, but for now they just had to watch and wait.

[1/1 Post Analyzing Hana, Shimiko, Seid, Azuma]

The Suna Shinobi was not so subtle about the fact he'd be listening in, something taken note by the ANBU who accompanied Shimiko, even without hearing what was said, the tap on the blonde's shoulder and whisper in the ear after taking notice of Azuma's presence, it wouldn't take a Genius to guess roughly what was said. The momentary glance from Shimiko would only confirm Azuma's thoughts. Ei wasn't too far behind him, Azuma noticing her approaching long before she actually arrived, sensing the young beauty's familiar chakra signature. He kept observing, taking note of everyone involved and reading the situation as it would continue to unfold. Ei had joined him, and not too long after he'd feel her grip his hand within her own, and would feel the tightened grip she gave. He'd return with a firm, but overall gentle squeeze of Ei's hand, a momentary glance to the shorter woman and smile, before his focus returned on the events unfolding in front of them, features returned to a stoic neutral. His voice would be quiet but fairly monotone, in response for Ei's ears only as they'd stand roughly 40 meters from the group.

"Seems so. But..." Azuma wouldn't finish saying anything after the 'but', a silent sigh escaping his lips. The man would listen to what else Ei had to say, while still keeping tabs on the negotiations unfolding. He could feel the slightest shiver from Ei's hand, he wasn't surprised by the thought she may be cold. He'd brought his full outfit he'd gotten from Inari, including the Haori--even if it wasn't typically something he'd wear. For a brief moment Ei's hand would feel Azuma's slip from it, before she'd find him placing the Silverweed jacket over Ei, giving her another layer to hopefully help keep her warm. He was fine in colder environments, and didn't like wearing the Haori that much anyways. He'd take her hand back into his, now him being the one to hold onto her hand instead of her holding onto his. He'd lean down just a bit to Ei's ear, only allowing her to hear his words. "I'd like to see Kurosawa returned to Kensai in the Land of Iron, and just saw it a couple minutes ago." he'd whisper to her, letting her know his thoughts on the matter.

---

[289/290CP]
Sensing Technique

1/4 Posts Analyzing the entire group

The ANBU steadied himself as the conversation between Shimiko and Hana rolled over like a rollercoaster. While they were making headway, the Mizukage wasn't budging much to his Captains demands. As he predicted, but he was sure Hana and company would see where she was coming from. Though he still noticed the increased tension. Which prompted him to be ready for any funny business. Though Kiri was known as a very deep empire with questionable actions. It didn't directly interfere with Kumogakure. Which made it of small importance to him. However, it was his number one priority at the moment. Such is his devotion to the village.

Seid was able to pick up another ninja that joined the scarred one watching them. They were waiting for whatever reason, but mostly keeping themselves. Interesting, but Seid would only note that they were Suna nin. Keeping his attention on the Mizukage and her guards.

Hana knew something was up. The woman's persistence, even when given a completely viable alternative, suggested to Hana that she planned something mischievous. Her eyes narrowed and peered into Shimiko's visually annoyed by her petty squabbles. But it didn't take much genius or dwelling to come up with a solution. "Fine." Hana said abruptly, but rose a single finger up to forewarn Shimiko. "But know this: you are responsible for the completion of this delivery. If my ninja gets hurt or the objective fails to meet its destination, you as well as Kumogakure will be responsible. I know my ninja would be capable of this task no problem, but adding an untrustworthy foreign presence to the mission causes unrest. After all, this wouldn't be the first time a Kumogakure ninja attacked Kirigakure's ninja unprovoked."

In the end, Kirigakure had no reason to trust Kumogakure. The Cloud village was unstable, Hana having heard of the attempted coup by the Jashinist clan. And there was no doubt that Shimiko was of some significance in that cult. Kumogakure's leadership was divided and a breeding ground for defective ninja. Hana rejected Kirigakure's past actions, but none of them directly threatened Kumogakure. The fact that Hana was even entertaining Kumogakure was a gesture of good will, but she had no intentions of giving too much.

"Now, run along to your temporary home. As I said, the broadcast will begin at six o'clock in the evening. You can watch it there. Also expect a package that evening as well. It'll have a pair of headsets. I will contact you through those within the next day or two when the delivery of Kurosawa is ready. The headsets will also be useful for the journey to Iron, assuming anything goes wrong. But just like you said, only you will accompany my ninja to the Land of Iron. Your friend will have to stay behind." That was all Hana was willing to give. If Shimiko was insistent on having a Kumogakure ninja make its delivery, so be it. But only one. Though all things considered, Hana was pleased knowing Kirigakure will begin making progress towards its recovery. More progress.

---

NPC Guard #1: 108/110 | Chakra Sensing Technique

The moment Hana uttered the word "Fine", Shimiko turned her head around to show Seid a smirk. She didn't even bother making eye contact with Hana; even as the Mizukage rose her finger to indicate that the acceptance was conditional. Shimiko relaxed her posture, removed her hands from the handle of her Sai, and folded her arms as she casually looked several feet in the air, well above the Kage's head. Her body language was akin to that of a moody teenager who was being lectured on all the things they had to do before they could go out with their friends. The pigtailed blonde suppressed a yawn as Hana continued speaking. While her mannerisms appeared to be lax and non-chalant, Shimiko retained perfect awareness of the situation. The edge in Hana's voice told her that the woman was dangerously close to reaching her limit. She was not likely to provide anymore concessions and if her emotions got the better of her, she might try something inadvisable. Shimiko melded her chakra in preparation for a sealless technique just in case. This might have been caught by the guard with Chakra Sensory. If he and his cohorts chose to act forcefully as a result of this defensive maneuver, then the consequences would be his to bear. After Hana had given in to her demands, she indicated that she was done with this meeting. She'd contact Shimiko through a pair of radio headsets to alert her when Kurosawa was ready. Shimiko noted a few curious things about what she had said, but she'd keep those oddities to herself for now.

The negotiations had been tense but this Mizukage was clearly wiser than the previous. On her last visit, Shimiko had allowed negotiations to falter and she had no intentions of repeating that failure. She had thus resolved to strike a hard bargain and Kiri appeared fairly eager to avoid conflict. The Honey Badger would be the only one accompanying the delivery boy or girl which suited her fine. She wasn't concerned about her personal safety, it was just her and another Kiri-Nin. She could take care of herself. If the mission fell through, then Kirigakure would hold her and her nation responsible.

"Very well" she said in an uncharacteristically cheery tone. It was the hallmark accent of a spoiled white girl that had just gotten what she wanted. There was more that Shimiko wanted to discuss, but she decided that they had already made a significant amount of progress for the day. The Mizukage had gone from placid to furious as a result of the Chinoike's hard-nosed haggling. She still had much to learn when it came to diplomacy and temperament but she was a quick study. Her previous experiences told her that sometimes it was better to not press your luck, even when you had the overwhelming advantage.

However, she didn't see the harm in providing a teaser for the things to come. Kirigakure and Kumogakure had not come to blows for the moment, but there were still outstanding issues to be resolved. Hana told her to "run along" but rather than move, the girl would say:

"Actually, there are a couple of other things Hana" using the woman's given name for the first time during their conversation. "Yui Kotoshura. The poor girl who was kidnapped by the Society and held hostage by Menza....I'm told your predecessor had the opportunity to free her but declined. She was then forced to battle in your country's fighting Pits for the organization's amusement"

Barbaric Heathens.... Shimiko thought. She held her tongue though, she didn't want to offend the already pissed off Kaguya at this point in the meeting.

"She ought to be made whole. She's a nice girl who got mixed up in a bad situation and your old boss failed to help her. She wants to start a new life with someone she cares about and I think Kiri should help her out to the tune of one million Ryo"

The request was inflammatory and she expected Hana to balk. Before the Mizukage could hose down the suggestion, Shimiko quickly added:

"Of course, that's what I would do if I were you. But I'm sure you're more flexible and creative than I" Shimiko had studied negotiation since her last visit with Kyoji. She learned that when things were going your way it was sometimes better to thrown in flattery so that you could close the deal on a positive note.

"Money isn't everything but a gesture would go along way towards improving your country's image. Think about a price or think about a gift. Something nice to show that what happened was in the past. Don't let her last memory of Mizu no Kuni be those pits..."

Shimiko was now appealing to Hana's sense of compassion and justice. Rather than threatening her or even mentioning Kumogakure's position, she was hoping that Hana would see how poorly Yui had been affected by the Menza Crisis and Kiri's role in it. Whatever Hana's response was, Shimiko would let the topic die there. It wasn't really a critical part of Kumo's national security concerns. She was merely doing a friend a favor. But if Hana did make it up to Yui, it would raise her esteem of the country.

"Finally, I wanted to let you know of an incident that occurred during your Chuunin Exams. It involves a genin named Shinsui of Konoha. I received a complaint about the use of excessive and lethal force and have investigated the matter. The genin involved were pretty shaken up.....one of them was Miyu Ryuutei who was a former Kiri-Nin that transferred to Kumo with the permission of the village. She lost a lot of kin in Kiri due to plague but if there is anyone still left that cares about her, I think they should be informed. She is fine as of right now but Kumo finds this incident disturbing. I've looked into and although I didn't see anything that warrants further action on our end, you might feel differently. In case you wanted to look into it, I'm willing to share the details. If you find any evidence of foul play or conspiracy, let us know. I think any cooperation on this matter would do wonders for relations between our villages. I'll send you the dossier when I arrive at my suite."

Shimiko would leave it at that. There wasn't anything else for her to say on the subject. If Kiri didn't care then she wouldn't press the issue. The Twins had returned safe, she couldn't find any evidence of malicious action on their part, so for now she was content to let the matter die. But on the off-hand chance that Kiri wanted to score brownie points, looking into this "Shinsui of Konoha" and what became of him might very well lead to some interesting joint mission operations.

Shimiko would listen to whatever response Hana saw fit to give to these two items. If the Mizukage had nothing else for her and if she took no offensive or threatening actions, then Shimiko would merely give a final nod.

"Emergency averted" she'd comment. "I look forward to your address and word on when Kurosawa is ready for delivery. Hopefully our next meeting will be more pleasant" she offered before turning away from the village and its inhabitants. Presumably, Seid would follow behind her, watching her back to ensure no betrayals occurred.

The presence of the Suna-Nin was strange. Fortunately, they hadn't interrupted negotiations. Shimiko was aware that a woman had joined the scarred young man. She could tell by her footsteps and the sound of her voice that she was a kunoichi. There was no reason to look at the woman directly or otherwise pay her greater attention then the minimal amount Ei saw fit to draw to herself. She could still keep tabs on her and her compatriot though her other senses, all of which were honed to superhuman levels. Of course, from one bosom-boaster to another, Shimiko would have probably felt obligated to tell Ei to watch out for Kiri's "friendship" or at least don't commit to any alliances until the Sand could be sure of the Isles' intentions. For the moment, however, it wasn't her concern unless they made it her concern. She'd leave them be, but in return she'd ask the same courtesy. Any attempt to scuttle what had been achieved would be met with a level of bloodshed hitherto unrealized at the Kirigakure Gates.

Without another word, Shimiko re-boarded the diplomatic vessel and sailed to Ota.

[Exit to Ota]

3rd Post Analyzing Hana & Company

1 Technique Prepped

She would stifle something of a giggle. The jacket that Azuma placed down over her shoulders would provide a small coating of warmth and security which Ei would settle into comfortably. That sensation of safety was just something that seemed to inherently radiate off of Azuma, something which she noticed again now that they were together off in a foreign land. Just like old times. It was almost nostalgic how this situation played itself out.

“You’d be awful at playing poker, Darling. Do you know how to play? … Hmm, I’ll have to teach you on the way home if not. But, It’d be best not to reveal our hand yet. It’s just like that saying, ‘Don’t give a kanabo to an oni’.”

It seemed that the situation had resolved itself though. The woman from Kumogakure had been placated, at least for now. Emergency averted. Ei’s eyes would glance at the woman as she left, watching her and her ANBU guard. It seemed that they wouldn’t be forced to think about the alliance they signed so soon.

“Should Kurosawa not be returned, it’ll become an event we can use to our own advantage.” She would muse on the situation, perhaps revealing a bit too much of how she thought to her partner. More devious than Azuma’s honesty, Ei was perfectly willing to see the situation go either way. Whatever they could trade in for a better position for their homeland. “... Which is an event we’ll be able to confirm on our own. Should events turn that way, we’ll see to it that the samurai get their sword. Don’t worry, Darling.”

There was no reason to loiter now that the event had ended. With a gentle tug on Azuma’s haori, she would gesture off in the distance to their exit.

“But for now, let’s return home. Shall we?”

[Exit -> Hozuki Isle -> Northeastern Land of Water -> Land of Water -> Land of Wind -> Sunrise Desert -> Sunagakure]

It'd seem everything would work out, cooler heads would win the situation, and no fight came of it. Azuma watched for a moment as it all unfolded, but would be drawn back into Ei and what she had to say. He cast the young woman a smile and would follow along with her, taking his leave back too Sunagakure.

[Water > Hot Springs > Rice > Bear > Waterfall > Grass > Rain > Wind; Using 200CP fast traveling, no wait time.]